The night’s big winners gather for a photo at the 2014 BMI Christian Awards in Nashville. Pictured are (l-r): BMI's Phil Graham, Song of the Year writer Scott Cash, Publisher of the Year Eddie DeGarmo of Capitol CMG Publishing, BMI's Leslie Roberts, Song of the Year writer Ed Cash, Songwriter of the Year and Song of the Year writer Chris Tomlin, Songwriter of the Year Brandon Heath, and BMI's Jody Williams. Photo: John Russell

Broadcast Music, Inc. honored the songwriters and publishers of the past year’s most performed Christian rock, contemporary Christian, inspirational, southern and urban gospel songs on U.S. Christian radio last night at the 2014 BMI Christian Awards. In addition, the invitation-only event, held at BMI’s Nashville offices on Music Row, named six Christian Songwriter of the Year award winners, including Mark Hall (“Already There,” “Jesus, Friend Of Sinners”), Brandon Heath (“Jesus in Disguise,” “Steal My Show”), Aaron Lindsey (“It’s Not Over [When God Is In It],” “My Testimony”), Matt Maher (“Lord, I Need You,” “White Flag”), TobyMac (“Steal My Show,” “You Lead”) and Chris Tomlin (“Whom Shall I Fear [God of Angel Armies],” “White Flag”). Tomlin also earned his first BMI Christian Song of the Year award for “Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies),” which was co-written with fellow BMI songwriters Ed Cash and Scott Cash, and published by Alletrop Music, McTyeire Music, S.D.G. Publishing, sixsteps Songs and Worship Together Music. Capitol CMG Publishing took home the award for BMI Christian Publisher of the Year.

Commenting on the winning songs, Jody Williams, BMI Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations, Nashville, said, “I’m always amazed by the inspirational stories these songs provide to fans of Christian music and beyond. BMI is honored to represent the stakeholders of these meaningful copyrights.”

The ceremony kicked off with performances by Christian artist and American Idol finalist Danny Gokey, as well as talented up-and-comer Jon Guerra. Williams and BMI Director, Writer/Publisher Relations, Leslie Roberts, served as the evening’s hosts. A complete list of the 2014 BMI Christian Award winners is below.

PUBLISHER OF THE YEAR

It’s Not Over (When God Is In It)
Life & Favor (You Don’t Know My Story)
Lord, I Need You
My Testimony
Steal My Show
Take Me to the King
White Flag
Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies)
You Are
You Lead